As children head back to school next week, many DeLand Police officers will be joining them.

Starting Monday, DeLand Police officers will make regular visits to schools in the DeLand area to conduct foot patrols of both the interior and exterior of the buildings. These patrols will complement the law enforcement presence provided by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.

Along with foot patrols, officers will interact with students during lunch in conjunction with the department’s ongoing initiative called Honorable Endeavor, which focuses on building relationships with area residents.

Throughout the year, trained officers will also go to city schools to educate students on different topics that are agreed upon by school officials.

“Operation School Guardian is simply an extension of our community-oriented policing strategy to build lasting relationships focused on our youth. I believe that as we do more and more engagement with our youth, we will reap the benefits of these relationships in our community,” said Police Chief Jason Umberger. “Our children are our future and the police department is committed to making sure they are safe.”